A substitute teacher at Cameron Elementary School in West Covina was removed from class after allegedly engaging in the viewing of inappropriate material on a cell phone while in the presence of students. This incident, which took place on Friday, triggered a police investigation and community concern, as reported by KCAL News.
The situation unfolded after a distressed student called a parent, leading to the intervention of the school's principal, Sylvia Fullerton. Fullerton, upon entering the classroom found several students crying and promptly dismissed the substitute teacher, whose identity had not been disclosed. Following the incident, the teacher was instructed to leave the school grounds, according to KCAL News.
West Covina Unified School District Superintendent Emy Flores addressed the episode, stating, "Ms. Fullerton took over the class and directed the substitute teacher to leave the classroom." Flores assured that the principal made certain the students felt safe and underscored that the substitute would not return to their classroom. To date, police have not made any arrests in connection with the event.
Reflecting on the gravity of the situation, West Covina Police Department Chief Richard Bell released a statement, "We want to reassure the community that the police department is treating these allegations with the utmost seriousness," which was obtained by Nixle. He went on to express understanding of the community’s likely emotional response, but urged for trust in the investigative process.
Further details about the investigation will be shared with the public as they become available. Community members who have information pertaining to the incident are encouraged to come forward by contacting the West Covina Police Department at (626) 939-8688.
